A Conservative politician who has raised more than £120,000 for charity by opening his Bledlow garden to the public has been recognised for his achievement.

Lord Carrington was awarded a commemorative sundial by Maggie Bateson, the National Garden Scheme (NGS) Bucks County Organiser, for opening his garden to the public for 50 years.

The restoration of the gardens at The Manor House, Bledlow, was started in 1969 by Lord and Lady Carrington with the help of Robert Adam, landscape architect. 

Today, it has been transformed into a large tranquil garden, including parterres, shrub borders, old roses walled kitchen garden, and two acres of landscape planting and sculptures.

Lord Carrington, who is the last surviving member of Churchill’s government and the longest serving member of the House of Lords, has welcomed thousands of people to his gardens over the years, raising a total of £123,683 for charity.

He said: "It has been a great pleasure to support the NGS over the last 50 years and enormous credit is due to them for their good works along with my own gardeners Mark Thompson and Chris Newport who keep the gardens spick and span.”

The National Garden Scheme is the most significant charitable fundraiser of nursing charities in the country, donating more than £50 million since it was created in 1927.

If you would like to open your garden next year and would like further information please contact maggiebateson@gmail.com.